Also known as the Peewit, Green Plover or just Lapwing.
Vanellus vanellus is about 30cm in length with a relatively large wingspan of approximately 70cm. It feeds on small invertebrates.
The Lapwing mostly feeds in mixed flocks, usually with Golden Plovers and Black-Headed Gulls - the latter of which will often steal the two Plovers' food. The pay-off is protection against predators.
There are three theories as to the origins of the name "lapwing". One is from the "lapping" sound its wings make in flight; or from the irregular progress it makes in flight due to its large wings; or possibly from its habit of drawing potential predators away from its nest by trailing a wing as if broken.
The Lapwing's call is shrill, described by the word peewit. In the breeding season the male will be extremely vocal whilst performing an obsessive tumbling display.
[All text: Ref (28)]
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